Adept HR insights
Practical HR advice for UK employers
Straightforward guides to managing people, meeting your responsibilities and knowing when to get tailored HR support.
1 min read
What could HR mistakes cost your business in a year?
HR mistakes can cost tens of thousands of pounds: a first Right to Work breach can mean £45,000 per illegal worker, and minimum wage penalties can reach £20,000 per underpaid worker. Tribunal awards and unpaid wages can add to the bill.
2 min read
Six-month unfair dismissal rights: how employers can prepare
The government schedules ordinary unfair dismissal protection after six months’ service for dismissals from 1 January 2027 in Great Britain. Day-one discrimination and certain automatically unfair dismissal protections already apply.
2 min read
Managing sickness absence: a practical employer guide
Record absence consistently, agree supportive contact and use review triggers as prompts for a conversation. Consider the employee’s circumstances and adjustments before formal action.
2 min read
Hiring your first employee in the UK: an employer checklist
Before your first employee starts, confirm the role and budget, complete the required checks, arrange payroll and insurance, and prepare written terms and induction.
3 min read
Third-party harassment at work: an employer’s guide
The government schedules stronger sexual-harassment prevention and third-party harassment duties for 30 October 2026. Review risks, reporting routes and manager training; a policy alone is not enough.
2 min read
Zero-hours contract changes in 2027: an employer’s guide
Guaranteed-hours offers, shift-notice rights and short-notice payments are planned for 2027; detailed rules are pending. Review actual working patterns and scheduling now without assuming a blanket ban.
2 min read
Probation periods in the UK: length, extensions and dismissal
Probation is a review period, not a suspension of employment rights. Agree objectives, provide feedback and check the contract before extending probation or ending employment.
2 min read
How to resolve workplace disputes: an employer’s guide
Listen early, establish the facts and choose a fair process. Informal discussion can resolve some concerns, but serious complaints and formal grievances need appropriate investigation and follow-up.
2 min read
Fixed-fee HR packages for small businesses: what’s included?
A fixed-fee HR package makes agreed support easier to budget for. Compare the work included, response times and extra charges before choosing a monthly retainer or a one-off project.
2 min read
Recruitment and employee retention: a small-business guide
Good people management connects recruitment with what happens after the offer. Set clear expectations, prepare a useful induction and give employees regular feedback, support and opportunities to develop.
2 min read
HR policies for small businesses: what do you need?
There is no universal mandatory HR policy pack. Start with written terms and clear procedures for the risks your business faces, then make sure managers know how to apply them.
2 min read
Outsourced HR for small businesses: services and costs
Outsourced HR gives you experienced advice or hands-on support without hiring a full in-house team. Choose the scope, response times and pricing that match the work your managers need help with.